In my evolving “Simulated Minds” series, the male and female forms now intertwine in a new sculpture titled Wired. Crafted from toys, wood, and retro TVs. This piece isn’t just about the bond between two people; it’s about how our upbringing leaves an indelible mark on how we navigate relationships—whether with friends, lovers, or even strangers. It also speaks to the influence of modern technology, which has warped our connections, sometimes blur-ring who we truly are beneath the endless screens.

Evidently, how we are raised sets the foundation for how we act in the world. Were you the child with the freedom to explore, feeling secure in yourself? Or were your boundaries tighter, making self-expression difficult as you grew older? These early experiences shape our capacity to communicate, connect, and react to life’s complexities.

Having experienced freedom and restraint, I could express my self creatively through dancing, acting, and art as a kid. However, regarding disagreements, I never felt fully able to voice my true feelings. During arguments, there was always an unspoken limit,which made me hesitant to fully voice my feelings. Over time, this hesitancy became internalized, making it challenging to express myself as an adult. Many of us carry this weight from childhood—not because we lack the desire to communicate, but because we’ve learned to hold back in moments when our voices matter most…

However, here’s where reflection can shift the narrative: our childhood does not have to define us. Through the right relationships and meaningful encounters, we can learn to break those patterns. The people we meet along the way—whether they stay or go teach us something. They become mirrors, reflecting what we need to change, grow, or hold onto. The right connections show us how to embrace our vulnerabilities, giving us space to be fully understood.

In today’s world, technology has made genuine connection harder to find. With so many options at our fingertips, we’re often more disconnected than ever. Wired serves as a reminder to look past the noise of modern distractions and reconnect with the essence of who we are and where we come from. Why do we react the way we do? What in our past influences our present? These questions are crucial, not just for understanding ourselves, but for building relationships that uplift and support us.

We are all the sum of our experiences—both the joy and the wounds. While our parents may not have been perfect, and while technology continues to manipulate our lives, we still have the power to reshape our story. The journey isn’t about erasing the past but understanding it, learning from it, and using it to become the best version of ourselves